Charles River Collaborates with Akron Bio to Improve Cell Therapy

Charles River and Akron Bio Join Forces for Innovation

Charles River Laboratories International, Inc. (NYSE: CRL) and Akron Bio have embarked on a promising collaboration aimed at enhancing operations in the realm of cell therapies. This merger brings into play Akron's Closed System Solutions (CSS)™, which offers liquid cytokines manufactured under stringent current good manufacturing practices (CGMP). By integrating these cytokines into Charles River’s Cell Therapy Flex Platform, the two companies intend to streamline production processes significantly.

Enhanced Processing with CGMP Materials

The backbone of this integration revolves around the benefits that closed system processing offers. By minimizing risks and improving the robustness of the production process, the collaboration seeks to elevate the overall quality of cell therapy development. As Kerstin Dolph, Corporate Senior Vice President of Global Manufacturing at Charles River, mentioned, cytokines are crucial in enhancing CAR-T and TCR-T therapies. This integration is a step towards simplifying the manufacturing processes, which can notably decrease labor input and boost efficiency.

The Role of Cytokines

Charles River's Cell Therapy Flex Platform is now enhanced with specialized CGMP liquid formulations that include cytokines such as rHu IL-2, IL-7, IL-15, and IL-21. These formulations maintain stability in a temperature range of 2-8°C, ensuring that the therapeutic proteins are both functional and effective when used. Additionally, these cytokines come in ready-to-use formats packaged in single-use bags with weldable tubing, fundamentally decreasing operator error and enabling swift aseptic media formulation.

Supporting Advanced Therapy Development

David Smith, President and Chief Commercial Officer at Akron, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the partnership, noting how the CSS cytokines can enhance manufacturing efficiency while ensuring patient safety. This focus on reducing risks in the manufacturing process aligns with an overarching goal of both companies: to continuously improve the effectiveness of therapies aimed at treating patients.

Commitment to Close the Cell Therapy Gap

Adding to their dedication towards innovation, Alex Sargent, Director of Process Development at Charles River, highlighted their excitement over the enhanced capabilities that come with the collaboration. With the inclusion of Akron Bio’s CSS line, customers gain access to CGMP-ready critical raw materials that have already been filed with the FDA, streamlining their own development processes.

Expanding Cell and Gene Therapy Solutions

In recent times, Charles River has expanded its capabilities within the cell and gene therapy space. This has been done through acquisitions and a strategic focus on simplifying supply chains, ensuring that they can meet the growing demand for specialized services such as plasmid DNA production, viral vector services, and cell therapy offerings. Their aim is to provide a comprehensive “concept-to-cure” platform that encapsulates various advanced therapies.

About Charles River and Akron Bio

Charles River is committed to delivering essential products and services to pharmaceutical and biotechnology enterprises, as well as academic institutions globally. Their dedicated employees work tirelessly to assist clients in accelerating research, drug development, and ensuring the safety of new therapies. To explore their services further, interested parties can visit their website.

Akron Bio specializes in the advancement of cell and gene therapies by offering cytokines, media supplements, and a broad range of manufacturing services. Their expertise in producing plasmid DNA and recombinant proteins positions them uniquely in this advancing field, providing developers with the necessary materials to fulfil compliance and regulatory needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the nature of the collaboration between Charles River and Akron Bio?

The collaboration focuses on integrating Akron's CGMP liquid cytokines into Charles River's Cell Therapy Flex Platform to enhance cell therapy manufacturing operations.

How does the integration of CGMP materials improve cell therapy?

Integrating CGMP materials simplifies manufacturing processes, reduces labor requirements, and enhances safety and efficacy for patient treatments.

What cytokines are included in this collaboration?

Key cytokines such as rHu IL-2, IL-7, IL-15, and IL-21 are incorporated into the Cell Therapy Flex Platform, ensuring stability and performance.

What advancements has Charles River made in the cell therapy field?

Charles River has expanded its portfolio significantly, focusing on simplifying supply chains to meet the increasing demand for cell and gene therapy services.

How can one learn more about Charles River and Akron Bio's offerings?

Information on their products and services can be found on their respective websites, detailing their extensive capabilities in advanced therapy development.

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